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By Tanner Smith
City & County of GP

Applications now being accepted for Firesmart Neighbourhood Recognition program

Nov 12, 2026 | 6:03 AM

Both the City and County of GP are encouraging local neighbourhoods to join the FireSmart Neighbourhood Recongition Program.

Through this program, neighbourhoods are recognized for their “collective action to prepare for wildfire, from identifying hazards and developing mitigation plans to organizing group cleanups and educational events.”

Mayor Jackie Clayton says the program “gives residents the knowledge, tools and support to make meaningful improvements close to home.”

County Reeve Amanda McDonald added that “spending an afternoon clearing brush side by side can go a long way, both in reducing risk and in getting to know the people next door.”

Earlier this year, the first neighbourhood in the region to join the program was Sunnybrooke and, through it, identified “vegetation ripe for wildfire burning after years of drought.”

“The grass was so thick,” said Sunnybrook resident Terry Vavrek-Froland; “I could just visualize a fire coming across there.”

Regional FireSmart coordinator Caleb Laing says that even though “communities need to band together to get the recognition, one of the most important steps to becoming a FireSmart community is identifying a local volunteer to champion the program.”

“Having a dedicated resident spearhead the application is key to getting their FireSmart journey started. someone needs to bring people together, build momentum and keep the effort moving forward.”

Anyone looking to join the program is also reminded about incentives being offered, including $1,000 for eligible applicants and $750 for renewing annual neighbourhood recongition status.

Residents interested in applying on behalf of their neighbourhood have until Jan. 31, and can fill out an application by visiting their municipality’s website:

by Tanner Smith